21st Bratton Hilly Run draws over 100 runners

The 21st running of the popular Hilly Run saw an improved entry of 111 runners on the start line in Bratton for the 11K race earlier this month.

The threatened rain held off and the wind had dropped sufficiently that it did not make a tough course even harder. Once again this year a donation from the profits will be made to Julia’s House, a charity providing hospice care for children.

There were no course records this year, but nevertheless the winner, Brian Jeffery of Chippenham Harriers, got round in a very respectable 44:39. Second home was Nicholas Brown of Lincoln Wellington in 46:11. Third place, for the second year running, going to James Sharland in 46:17; just five seconds outside his time last year.

The women’s race was won by Rachel Bown of RG Active in a time of 56:02 and she was followed home a minute later by Mel Ward-Nicholls of Avon Valley Runners (57:06). Third was unattached runner Donna Gavin from Salisbury in a time of 58:16.

The first of the veteran prizes, that for male vet 40, went to Danny Gard of Avon Valley runners in 48:12, a prize he also won last year. Also for the second year running, Bratton resident Bob Salter won the male vet 50 prize with a time of 50:39. The male vet 60 class was won by Bill Fullbrook in 56:00. Mel Ward-Nichols of Avon Valley Runners was the first female vet 35 home in a time of 57:06. The female vet 45 category was won by race winner Rachel Bown and the final vet category, the female vet 55 was won by Judith Wilson of Yeovil Town Road Running Club in 71:13.

A good day for Avon Valley Runners was rounded off by winning both of the team prizes. The men were Daniel Piper, Pete Valeski, Danny Gard,  and Robin-Mark Schols. The ladies were, Mel Ward-Nichols, Ali Atkinson, Kath Kinsey and Liz Gard.

Bob Salter picked up a second prize as he won the shield for the first Bratton Resident to finish in a time of 50:39.

Race director Simon Reeves said, “I’d like to  thank all of those who took  part and also those who volunteered to help out with organisation, with marshalling, with manning the important finish line tasks and with providing the food and drink. Without these volunteers the event could not take place, so their help is really valued.”

Next year’s event will take place on Saturday 12th May 2018, starting once more at 11am.